A GROUP of horse riders from across Cheshire completed a ride to raise awareness of the safety issues they face due to reckless motorists.

The route focused on Rake Lane, which runs from Backford to Little Stanney near Ellesmere Port. The road has been a source of danger and concern for several riders with horses based at Collinge Farm. More than 30 riders, with more on foot carrying banners displaying the 'Pass Wide and Slow' message, attended the demonstration on Saturday, September 18.

One of the event's organisers, Louise Roberts from Ellesmere Port, was involved in a collision with a car whilst riding her horse on Rake Lane and feels that it is only a matter of time before such an incident is fatal.

Chester and District Standard: The group meeting at Collinge Farm (pic: Nicole Patchett)The group meeting at Collinge Farm (pic: Nicole Patchett) (Image: Nicole Patchett)

Speaking ahead of the ride, Louise said: "I was involved in a collision and whilst neither myself or the horse was hurt, mentally it was awful.

"The car skidded and collided with my horse and then drove off, saying a few expletives. [The driver] really wasn't going to stop and help.

"Luckily I managed to phone someone from the yard to come and help me."

Louise said that the experience was almost enough to make her quit horse riding, but she hopes by raising awareness of the laws protecting vulnerable road users, she and others will be able to continue doing what they enjoy.

"It is 10mph to pass a horse, and we don't get that. Without that, somebody is going to die on Rake Lane.

"All we're asking for is a bit of respect. Pass wide and slow, we're not asking you to stop, that's not what we want. Just be cautious, it's much easier to control the horse if you pass at 10 miles an hour.

"We've had so many near misses."

Chester and District Standard: Rake Lane has been extremely dangerous for riders and other vulnerable road users.Rake Lane has been extremely dangerous for riders and other vulnerable road users. (Image: Nicole Patchett)

The group, dressed in high-vis jackets, gathered at the Collinge Farm's livery yard before making their way to Rake Hall. Arriving at around 10.30am, they were met by Chester MP Chris Matheson and Cllr Simon Eardley.

The latest version of the Highway Code, rule 215, requires motorists not only to pass wide and slow when approaching horse riders, but specifically at no more than 10 miles per hour and at a distance of no less than 2 metres.